Zucchini Fritters (Kolokithokeftedes)
Crispy and flavorful Greek zucchini fritters (kolokithokeftedes) packed with fresh herbs and tangy feta cheese. Pan-fried to golden perfection, they make a wonderful appetizer or light meal for two.
Prepare the zucchini
Grate 1 large zucchini using the large holes of a box grater. Place the grated zucchini in a colander and sprinkle generously with about 1/2 teaspoon salt. Let it sit for 15 minutes; this draws out excess moisture. After resting, squeeze the zucchini very, very dry using your hands or a clean kitchen towel. Removing as much liquid as possible is crucial for crispy fritters. Kolokithokeftedes means Greek zucchini fritters.
💡 Pro Tips:
- •Squeezing out excess moisture is key for crispy fritters (small, fried savory cakes).
- •This step also removes some bitterness from the zucchini.
Make the fritter batter
In a medium bowl, combine the squeezed-dry grated zucchini, 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese, 1 large lightly beaten egg, 1/4 cup all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh mint, 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh dill, 1 thinly sliced green onion, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Mix gently until just combined. Do not overmix.
💡 Pro Tips:
- •Mixing gently prevents the batter from becoming tough.
- •Use fresh herbs for the best flavor.
Pan-fry the fritters
Heat 3 tablespoons olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, drop spoonfuls of the zucchini mixture (about 2 tablespoons each) into the skillet, gently flattening them into round patties. Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if needed. Fry for 3-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Add more oil if needed for subsequent batches. Remove cooked fritters and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any extra oil.
💡 Pro Tips:
- •Ensure the oil is hot enough for a crispy crust but not so hot that they burn.
- •Fritter means a small, fried savory cake.
Serve
Serve the Zucchini Fritters hot. They are delicious on their own or with a dollop of plain Greek yogurt, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, or a side of tzatziki (a Greek yogurt and cucumber sauce).
💡 Pro Tips:
- •Fritters are best enjoyed fresh and hot.
- •Tzatziki is a Greek yogurt and cucumber sauce.
- Box grater
- Colander
- Clean kitchen towel
- Medium bowl
- Large non-stick skillet
- Spatula
- Paper towel-lined plate
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Knife and cutting board
- 💡For extra flavor, you can add a pinch of garlic powder or a finely minced clove of garlic to the fritter mixture.
- 💡Experiment with different herbs like parsley or oregano for a varied flavor profile.
- 💡Leftover fritters can be reheated in a toaster oven or air fryer to regain crispness.
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